Systems and methods for sizing and introduction of soft-tissue allografts

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure includes systems, methods, kits, and individual tools (e.g., trial sizers and delivery devices) for medical procedures involving a soft-tissue allograft for the correction of skeletal impairments (e.g., misalignments, arthritis, etc.).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/449,022, filed Jun. 21, 2019, which claims the benefit of priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/687,901, filed Jun. 21,2018, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present application relates generally to systems and methods for amedical procedure involving soft-tissue allografts (e.g., dermalallograft) for the correction of skeletal impairment (e.g.,misalignment, arthritis, etc.), and more particularly, but not by way oflimitation, to sizers and delivery devices for introduction of suchallografts.

BACKGROUND

Examples of sizers and delivery devices that can be used forintroduction of tissue implants are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,168,631(the '631 Patent). Another example of an implant assembly is disclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 8,092,547 (the '547 Patent). An example of an implantfor correction of skeletal misalignment is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,450,591 (the '591 Patent). Another example of a tissue implant isdisclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 2017/0189197 (the '197Publication).

One example of a skeletal impairment condition is a fallen arch or“flatfoot.” The condition involves a deformity in which the arches ofthe foot collapse, resulting in the entire sole of the foot being incomplete or nearly complete contact with the ground. This may eventuallycause other biomechanical issues with the physiology of the foot that,in turn, may adversely affect other parts of the body. The “flatfoot”condition occurs when the head of the talus bone is displaced mediallyand distally from the navicular bone, which in turn causes lateralmisalignment throughout the foot as the talus and navicular bones tendto move outward. Furthermore, there is a change in relative alignment inthe subtalar joint that occurs at the meeting point between the talusbone and the calcaneus bone such that the canal, which should naturallyoccur between the talus and calcaneus bones, is depressed. This canal iscommonly referred to as the sinus tarsi. The misalignment of the talusand calcaneus bones eventually leads to misalignment of other bones inthe foot and leg.

Another example of a skeletal impairment condition is osteoarthritis ofthe carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. The CMC joint is where thesaddle-shaped trapezium bone articulates with the first metacarpal bone.An osteoarthritic CMC joint can become painful enough to severely limitactivities of daily life for a large portion of the population. Whilesymptoms may be treated with physical therapy, rest and stabilization,or anti-inflammatory medications, surgical intervention may beclinically indicated if pain persists. Interpositional arthroplasty ofthe CMC joint is the most common surgical procedure to treatosteoarthritis of the CMC joint.

Surgical intervention to treat osteoarthritis of the CMC joint beginswith removal of a portion or all of the trapezium bone to create a void.To prevent complete collapse of the first metacarpal bone into the voidcreated, a wire pin is used as a temporary stabilizer to align the baseof the first metacarpal bone with the base of the index metacarpal. Theflexor carpi radialis (FCP) tendon is then harvested, rolled up andsutured to prevent unrolling, and is interposed between the base of thethumb metacarpal and the scaphoid, the space previously occupied by thetrapezium bone. In some cases, an additional procedure called asuspensionplasty is performed, where another piece of tendon is used totie the base of the thumb metacarpal to the base of the indexmetacarpal.

While the outcomes of interpositional arthroplasty of the CMC joint areacceptable, there are several disadvantages to the procedure, such asadditional trauma to the patient in taking an autograft, morbidityassociated with the graft donor site, and inadequate amount orinadequate quality of tendon available. The time it takes to harvest anFCP tendon graft is not insignificant, and can be increased even more ifsuspensionplasty is added as an additional procedure. Additionally,there is evidence that during healing, the tendon graft weakens andloses structural strength, necessitating the use of pins to help holdthe thumb metacarpal in the right position while dense scar tissue formsto support the metacarpal.

Prosthetic material, such as silicone rubber, has also been used totreat osteoarthritic CMC joints. However, all of these silicone rubberdevices are subject to dislocation, fracture, abrasion and fatigue,which leads to the generation of small silicone particulate debris thatcause a chronic inflammatory reaction called “silicone synovitis.”

To address subtalar joint impairments, it has been discovered that byre-establishing the relative alignment between the talus and calcaneusbones, the overall arch structure of the foot can be reestablished aswell. While this can be demonstrated by physically manipulating aperson's foot, such physical manipulation is impractical during normaluse of one's foot. As such, there have been various efforts made toprovide implants which operate to physically reposition and realign thetalus and calcaneus bones. However, like other prior art systems,apparatuses, and methods for sizing and introducing implants to correctskeletal impairments, the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed inthe '631 Patent, the '547 Patent, the '591 Patent, and '197 Publication,make it exceedingly difficult to simplify the surgical procedure fordelivering a tissue implant and maintaining natural motion of the bonesafter correcting the impairment. Hence, there is a need for a system andmethod for overcoming one or more of the above identified challenges.

SUMMARY

This disclosure includes configurations of devices, apparatuses, kits,and methods for sizing and introducing soft-tissue allografts fortreatment or correction of skeletal impairments. Non-limiting examplesof surgical procedures that benefit from the present disclosure include,but are not limited to: subtalar joint arthroplasty; carpometacarpaljoint arthroplasty; lateral mid-foot interpositional arthroplasty (e.g.,4^(th)/5^(th) metatarsal-cuboid joint); ankle interpositionalarthroplasty (e.g., tibio-talar joint); elbow interpositionalarthroplasty (e.g., radio-capitellar joint); proximal femoralinterpositional arthroplasty; and interphalangeal interpositionalarthroplasty (e.g., proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers). Forexample, at least some of the present configurations include a trialsizer comprising an elongated shaft having a proximal end and a distalend, and a radiopaque tip coupled to the distal end of the elongatedshaft, the tip having a transverse dimension equal to or greater than acorresponding transverse dimension of the elongated shaft, and havingdimensions that mimic the dimensions of a corresponding soft-tissueallograft. In this way, at least some configurations of the presentapparatuses can aid in determining the appropriate size and location ofthe soft-tissue allograft appropriate for transplantation at the site ofdelivery in a way that has previously not been possible with prior arttrial sizers.

Some configurations of the present trial sizers comprise: an elongatedshaft having a proximal end and a distal end; and a radiopaque tipcoupled to the distal end of the elongated shaft, the tip having atransverse dimension equal to or greater than a corresponding transversedimension of the elongated shaft, and having dimensions that mimic thedimensions of a corresponding soft-tissue allograft.

In some configurations of the present trial sizers, the elongated shaftdefines a channel extending between and through the proximal and distalends of the elongated shaft. In some configurations of the present trialsizers, the elongated shaft is configured to indicate insertion depth.In some configurations of the present trial sizers, the distal end ofthe elongated shaft comprises a plurality of indicia to indicateinsertion depth. In some configurations of the present trial sizers, thedistal end of the elongated shaft defines one or more threads along aportion of a length of the distal end.

In some configurations of the present trial sizers, the trial sizerfurther includes a trial sizer head defining a channel extendingbetween, and through, a proximal end to a distal end, the trial sizerhead being coupled to the proximal end of the elongated shaft. In someconfigurations of the present trial sizers, the trial sizer head isunitary with the elongated shaft.

In some configurations of the present trial sizers, the radiopaque tipcan be uncoupled from the distal end of the elongated shaft and theelongated shaft can be used to push an implant through the deliverycannula to an insertion point. In some configurations of the presenttrial sizers, the length of the radiopaque tip is from 8 mm to 25 mm.

Some configurations of the present kits comprise: a configuration of thepresent trial sizers, and a delivery cannula comprising: an elongatedbody having a proximal end and a distal end, and defining a longitudinalchannel extending between and through the proximal and distal ends; anda handle portion coupled to the proximal end of the elongated body, thehandle portion defining a channel that is aligned with the longitudinalchannel of the elongated body.

In some configurations of the present kits, the elongated shaft definesa channel extending between and through the proximal and distal ends ofthe elongated shaft. In some configurations of the present kits, theelongated shaft is configured to indicate insertion depth. In someconfigurations of the present kits, the distal end of the elongatedshaft comprises a plurality of indicia to indicate insertion depth. Insome configurations of the present kits, the elongated shaft defines oneor more threads along a portion of its length closer to the distal endthan to the proximal end.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises atrial sizer head defining a channel extending between, and through, aproximal end to a distal end, the trial sizer head being coupled to theproximal end of the elongated shaft. In some configurations of thepresent kits, the trial sizer head is unitary with the elongated shaftof the trial sizer.

In some configurations of the present kits, the radiopaque tip can beuncoupled from the distal end of the elongated shaft and the elongatedshaft can be used to push an implant through the delivery cannula to aninsertion point. In some configurations of the present kits, the lengthof the radiopaque tip is from 8 mm to 25 mm.

In some configurations of the present kits, the elongated body of thedelivery cannula comprises transparent material.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises adelivery tool comprising an elongated shaft having a proximal end and adistal end that is configured to indicate insertion depth. In someconfigurations of the present kits, the distal end of the elongatedshaft comprises a plurality of indicia to indicate insertion depth. Insome configurations of the present kits, the elongated shaft of thedelivery tool has a diameter from 5 mm to 15 mm. In some configurationsof the present kits, the delivery tool further comprises a delivery toolhead coupled to the proximal end of the elongated shaft. In someconfigurations of the present kits, the delivery tool head is unitarywith the elongated shaft.

In some configurations of the present kits, the elongated shaft of thetrial sizer is configured to have an outer diameter from 5 mm to 15 mm.In some configurations of the present kits, the delivery cannula isconfigured to have an inner diameter from 5 mm to 15 mm.

In some configurations of the present kits, a distal end of the trialsizer head has a first portion with a first transverse dimension, and asecond portion with a second transverse dimension larger than the firsttransverse dimension, the first transverse dimension being larger than acorresponding transverse dimension of the channel of the deliverycannula to prevent the first portion from entering the channel of thedelivery cannula.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises atleast one sterile dermal allograft having a diameter about equal to anaverage width of a canal between a subject's misaligned bones, where thedermal allograft implant is compressible and flexible. In someconfigurations of the present kits, the dermal allograft has a densitysufficient to resist full compression of the canal.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises apackage within which the other components of the kit are sealed.

Some implementations of the present methods for sizing and delivering animplant comprise (a) disposing a delivery cannula through an incision inthe skin of a patient such that a distal end of the delivery cannula isdisposed between the incision and a given space between bones of thepatient; (b) inserting a trial sizer of any of the presently disclosedkits or of the presently disclosed apparatuses into the space; (c)determining whether the trial sizer fits into the space in an acceptableway, and: (i) if the trial sizer fits into the space in an acceptableway, delivering an implant through the delivery cannula into the space;or (ii) if the trial sizer does not fit into the space in an acceptableway, sequentially repeating steps (b) and (c) with a trial sizer of adifferent size until a trial sizer fits into the space in an acceptableway.

Some implementations of the present methods for sizing and delivering animplant further comprise removing the delivery cannula after deliveringthe implant. In some implementations of the present methods for sizingand delivering an implant, the method further comprises suturing theincision closed.

In some implementations of the present methods for sizing and deliveringan implant, the delivery cannula comprises an elongated body having aproximal end and a distal end, and defining a longitudinal channelextending between, and through, the proximal end and the distal end, anda handle portion coupled to the proximal end of the elongated body, thehandle portion defining a channel that is aligned with and in fluidcommunication with the longitudinal channel of the elongated body.

In some implementations of the present methods for sizing and deliveringa soft-tissue allograft, the method further comprises inserting adelivery tool comprising an elongated shaft having a proximal end and adistal end, where the distal end of the elongated shaft is configured toindicate insertion depth.

In some configurations of the present trial sizers, a trial sizercomprises: a cylindrical head having a first side, a second side, and aperipheral surface extending between the first and second sides anddefining a circular cross sectional shape of the head; a handle having aproximal end and a distal end coupled to the peripheral surface; andwhere the head has dimensions that mimic the dimensions of acorresponding implant.

In some configurations of the present trial sizers, the head isradiopaque. In some configurations, the head is unitary with the handle.In some configurations, a transverse dimension of the head is from 5 mmto 25 mm.

In some configurations of the present suture delivery guides, a suturedelivery guide comprises: a body having a first side and a second sideand defining an implant chamber extending through the first side towardthe second side, the body defining a plurality of first suture passageson a first side of the implant chamber and a plurality of second suturepassages on a second side of the implant chamber, each of the secondsuture passages being aligned with a corresponding one of the firstsuture passages, the body further defining a first slot extendingthrough the first side of the body and in fluid communication with allof the first suture passages, and a second slot extending through thefirst side of the body and in fluid communication with all of the secondsuture passages.

In some configurations of the present suture delivery guides, the bodyhas a medial portion defining the implant chamber and two lateralportions on opposite sides of the medial portion, a first one of thelateral portions defining the first suture passages, and a second one ofthe lateral portions defining the second suture passages.

In some configurations of the present suture delivery guides, each oftwo of the first suture passages and a corresponding each of two of thesecond suture passages is intersected by a reference plane that extendsparallel to the first and second slots and through the first and secondsides of the body.

In some configurations of the present suture delivery guides, a set oftwo of the first suture passages and a corresponding set of two of thesecond suture passages is arranged relative to a reference plane thatextends parallel to the first and second slots and through the first andsecond sides of the body, such that the two first suture passages aredisposed on opposite sides of the plane, and the two second suturepassages are disposed on opposite sides of the plane.

In some configurations of the present kits, a kit comprises: at leastone of a configuration of any of the presently disclosed trial sizers;and at least one of a configuration of any of the presently disclosedsuture delivery guides.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises:at least one sterile dermal allograft having a diameter about equal toan average width of a canal between a subject's misaligned bones, wherethe dermal allograft is compressible and flexible.

In some configurations of the present kits, the dermal allograft has adensity sufficient to resist full compression.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises apackage within which the other components of the kit are sealed.

In some implementations of the present methods, a method comprises: (a)inserting a trial sizer of any of the kits presently disclosed or anyconfiguration of the trial sizers disclosed herein into a given spacebetween bones of the patient; (b) determining whether the trial sizerfits into the space in an acceptable way, and (i) if the trial sizerfits into the space in an acceptable way, delivering an implant to thespace; or (ii) if the trial sizer does not fit into the space in anacceptable way, sequentially repeating steps (b) and (c) with a trialsizer of a different size until a trial sizer fits into the space in anacceptable way.

In some implementations of the present methods, a bone (e.g., thetrapezium bone) is excised prior to inserting the trial sizer.

In some implementations of the present methods, the peripheral surfaceof the head of the trial sizer faces bone.

In some implementations of the present methods, the first end and thesecond end of the head of the trial sizer faces bone.

In some implementations of the present methods, delivering an implant tothe space comprises using a suture delivery guide. The suture deliveryguide may include any configuration of the suture delivery guidespresently disclosed.

In some implementations of the present methods, delivering a soft-tissueallograft to the space comprises: inserting a suture anchor in thedistal aspect of the 2nd metacarpal bone; and fastening a soft-tissueallograft to the suture anchor.

In some implementations of the present methods, delivering a soft-tissueallograft to the space comprises: (a) passing a suture through asoft-tissue allograft and looping the suture through a flexor carpiradialis tendon; (b) looping the suture back through the soft-tissueallograft; (c) delivering the soft-tissue allograft over the suture andinto the space between bones of the patient; and (d) tying the sutureusing an acceptable surgical knot.

In some implementations of the present methods, a method comprises:providing at least one sterile pre-formed soft-tissue allograft rod plughaving a diameter about equal to an average width of a space between aperson's bones and a density sufficient to resist full compression ofthe space, the pre-formed soft-tissue allograft rod plug beingresiliently compressible and flexible while remaining substantially asthe formed plug; and delivering the at least one sterile pre-formedsoft-tissue allograft rod plug into the space between a set of bones ofthe patient, where the set of bones is selected from the group of setsof bones consisting of: (a) a 1^(st) metacarpal bone and a scaphoidbone; (b) a 4^(th) metatarsal bone, 5^(th) metatarsal bone, and cuboidbone; (c) a 5^(th) metatarsal bone; (d) a tibia bone and a talus bone;(e) a radius bone and a humerus bone; (f) a femur bone and a pelvisbone; (g) any of the proximal phalanges of a hand and any of thecorresponding intermediate phalanges of a hand.

In some implementations of the present methods, a portion or all of apatient's trapezium bone is removed prior to delivering the at least onesterile dermal allograft.

In some implementations of the present methods, a trial sizer isinserted into the space created between the 1^(st) metacarpal and thescaphoid bone of the patient's hand prior to delivering the at least onesterile dermal allograft.

In some implementations of the present methods, the space is between the4^(th) and 5^(th) metatarsal bones of the foot and the cuboid bone ofthe foot.

In some implementations of the present methods, the space is between atibia bone and a talus bone of the patient.

In some implementations of the present methods, the space is between aradius bone and a capitellum portion of a humerus bone of the patient.

In some implementations of the present methods, the space is between afemur bone and a pelvis bone of the patient.

In some implementations of the present methods, the space is between anyof the proximal phalanges of a hand and any of the correspondingintermediate phalanges of a hand.

The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarilydirectly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled”may be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined asone or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. Theterm “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily whollywhat is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includesparallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Inany configuration or implementation of the present devices, apparatuses,kits, and methods, the term “substantially” may be substituted with“within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentageincludes 0.1, 1, 5, and/or 10 percent.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and“comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and“having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and“including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains”and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, anapparatus or kit that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” oneor more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is notlimited to possessing only those elements. Likewise, a method that“comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more steps possessesthose one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those oneor more steps.

Further, an apparatus, device, or structure that is configured in acertain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also beconfigured in other ways than those specifically described.

Any configuration or implementation of any of the present devices,apparatuses, kits, and methods can consist of or consist essentiallyof—rather than comprise/include/contain/have—any of the described steps,elements, and/or features. Thus, in any of the claims, the term“consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” can be substituted forany of the open-ended linking verbs recited above, in order to changethe scope of a given claim from what it would otherwise be using theopen-ended linking verb.

Details associated with the configurations described above and othersare presented below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation.For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structureis not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears.Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identicalstructure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate asimilar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as maynon-identical reference numbers. The figures are drawn to scale (unlessotherwise noted), meaning the sizes of the depicted elements areaccurate relative to each other for at least the configurations depictedin the figures.

FIG. 1A shows a side view of a configuration of the present trialsizers.

FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional side view of the trial sizer of FIG. 1Ataken along a plane bisecting the elongated shaft extending from thetrial sizer head to the tip.

FIG. 1C shows an isometric view of the trial sizer of FIGS. 1A, 1B.

FIG. 1D shows a side view of the trial sizer of FIGS. 1A-1C insertedinto an incision in skin to an insertion point located 25 mm below theskin surface.

FIG. 1E shows a side view of a trial sizer with an extended depth range.

FIG. 2A shows a cross-sectional side view of a configuration of thedelivery cannula of the present kits taken along a plane bisecting theelongated body extending from the proximal end to the distal end of thedelivery cannula.

FIG. 2B shows a side view of the delivery cannula of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C shows an isometric view of the delivery cannula of FIGS. 2A-2B.

FIG. 3A shows a side view of a configuration of the delivery tool of thepresent kits.

FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional side view of the delivery tool of FIG.3A taken along a plane bisecting the elongated shaft extending from thedelivery tool head to the distal end of the delivery tool.

FIG. 3C shows an isometric view of the delivery tool of FIGS. 3A-3B.

FIG. 4 shows a top view of a configuration of the present kitscontaining various sizes of trial sizers, delivery cannulas, anddelivery tools, where the trial sizers and delivery tools are separatelypackaged within the sterile kit.

FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of a configuration of the presenttrial sizers inserted into a configuration of the present deliverycannula, with the tip of the trial sizer extending past the distal endof the delivery cannula at least 10 mm beneath the skin surface.

FIG. 5B shows an isometric view of the apparatus of FIG. 6A, with aportion of the tip of the trial sizer extending past the distal end ofthe delivery cannula.

FIG. 6 shows a flow chart for depicting a process for sizing anddelivering a tissue implant using a configuration of a trial sizer ofany of the presently disclosed kits or presently disclosed apparatuses.

FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of the delivery cannula, insertedto a point at least 10 mm beneath the skin surface, with a dermalallograft implant at the distal end of the elongated shaft of the trialsizer that is inserted in the channel of the delivery cannula.

FIG. 7B shows an isometric view of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 7A, withthe trial sizer pushing the dermal allograft implant beyond the distalend of the delivery cannula inserted beneath the skin surface.

FIG. 7D shows a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 7C, depicting thetrial sizer pushing the dermal allograft implant to a depth of 25 mmbeneath the skin surface.

FIG. 7E shows an isometric view of the apparatus of FIGS. 7C-7D.

FIGS. 7F-7P shows top and isometric views of a patient's foot during asubtalar operation for sizing and delivering a tissue implant using anapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 8A shows an isometric view of another configuration of the presenttrial sizers.

FIG. 8B-8D shows an isometric, side, and cross-sectional view of a headof the trial sizer of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A shows a side view of a configuration of the present suturedelivery guides.

FIG. 9B shows a top view of the suture delivery guide of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C shows a cross-sectional view of the suture passages disposedwithin the suture delivery guide of FIG. 9A and taken along a planebisecting the suture delivery guide.

FIG. 9D shows a cross-sectional side view of the suture delivery guideof FIG. 9A taken along a plane bisecting the longitudinal dimension ofthe suture delivery guide.

FIG. 9E shows a cross-sectional top view of the suture delivery guide ofFIG. 9D.

FIG. 9F shows a cross-sectional view of the suture passages on a side ofthe allograft chamber and taken along a plane bisecting the suturedelivery guide.

FIG. 9G shows a cross-sectional side view of a second configuration ofthe suture delivery guide taken along a plane bisecting the longitudinaldimension of the suture delivery guide.

FIG. 9H shows a top view of the suture delivery guide of FIG. 9G.

FIG. 9I shows a cross-sectional view of the suture passages on a side ofthe allograft chamber and taken along a plane bisecting the suturedelivery guide of FIG. 9G.

FIG. 10A shows a side view of the suture delivery guide of FIGS. 9A-9Fwith a suture looping through an allograft and back within the implantchamber.

FIG. 10B shows a top view of the suture delivery guide of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A shows a top view of the thumb metacarpal bone, carpometacarpaljoint, trapezium, and carpal bones of the hand.

FIG. 11B shows a sagittal view of the hand bones of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C shows an isometric view of the hand bones of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A shows a top view of the hand bones with the trial sizer of FIG.8 oriented where the peripheral surface of the head of the trial sizerfaces bone.

FIG. 12B shows a sagittal view of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 12C shows an isometric view of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 13A shows a top view of the hand bones with the trial sizer of FIG.8 oriented where the first and second sides of the head of the trialsizer face bone.

FIG. 13B shows a sagittal view of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 13C shows an isometric view of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14A shows a top view of the hand bones with an allograft disposedin a first orientation similar to the orientation of the trial sizer inFIG. 12A.

FIG. 14B shows a sagittal view of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 14C shows an isometric view of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 15A shows a top view of the hand bones with an allograft disposedin a second orientation similar to the orientation of the trial sizer inFIG. 13A.

FIG. 15B shows a sagittal view of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15C shows an isometric view of FIG. 15A.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1A-7E,FIG. 1A shows a side view of a configuration of the present trialsizers; FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional side view of the trial sizer ofFIG. 1A taken along a plane bisecting the elongated shaft extending fromthe trial sizer head to the tip; FIG. 1C shows an isometric view of thetrial sizer of FIGS. 1A, 1B; FIG. 1D shows a side view of the trialsizer of FIGS. 1A-1C inserted into an incision in skin to an insertionpoint located 25 mm below the skin surface; FIG. 2A shows across-sectional side view of a configuration of the delivery cannula ofthe present kits taken along a plane bisecting the elongated bodyextending from the proximal end to the distal end of the deliverycannula; FIG. 2B shows a side view of the delivery cannula of FIG. 2A;FIG. 2C shows an isometric view of the delivery cannula of FIGS. 2A-2B;FIG. 3A shows a side view of a configuration of the delivery tool of thepresent kits; FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional side view of the deliverytool of FIG. 3A taken along a plane bisecting the elongated shaftextending from the delivery tool head to the distal end of the deliverytool; FIG. 3C shows an isometric view of the delivery tool of FIGS.3A-3B;

FIG. 4 shows a top view of a configuration of the present kitscontaining various sizes of trial sizers, delivery cannulas, anddelivery tools, where the trial sizers and delivery tools are separatelypackaged within the sterile kit; FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view ofa configuration of the present trial sizers inserted into aconfiguration of the present delivery cannula, with the tip of the trialsizer extending past the distal end of the delivery cannula at least 10mm, with the distal end of the delivery cannula located at least 10 mmbeneath the skin surface; FIG. 5B shows an isometric view of theapparatus of FIG. 5A, with a portion of the tip of the trial sizerextending past the distal end of the delivery cannula; FIG. 6 shows aflow chart for depicting a process for sizing and delivering asoft-tissue allograft using a configuration of a trial sizer of any ofthe presently disclosed kits or presently disclosed apparatuses; FIG. 7Ashows a cross-sectional view of the delivery cannula, inserted to apoint at least 10 mm beneath the skin surface, with a dermal allograftat the distal end of the elongated shaft of the delivery tool that isinserted in the channel of the delivery cannula; FIG. 7B shows anisometric view of FIG. 7A; FIG. 7C shows a cross-sectional view of theapparatus of FIG. 7A, with the delivery tool pushing the dermalallograft beyond the distal end of the delivery cannula inserted beneaththe skin surface; FIG. 7D shows a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 7C,depicting the delivery tool pushing the dermal allograft to a depth of25 mm beneath the skin surface; and FIG. 7E shows an isometric view ofthe apparatus of FIGS. 7C-7D.

In a particular configuration, such as the one shown in FIGS. 1A-1D,trial sizer 100 comprises: an elongated shaft 104 having a proximal end108 and a distal end 112; and a radiopaque tip 116 coupled to distal end112 of elongated shaft 104, where tip 116 has a transverse dimension 120equal to or greater than a corresponding transverse dimension 124 ofelongated shaft 104, and having dimensions that mimic the dimensions ofa corresponding soft-tissue allograft (e.g., dermal allograft 700). Forexample, transverse dimension 120 may be equal to a transverse dimensionof a soft-tissue allograft (e.g., dermal allograft 700) so that anoperator may determine the dimensions of the allograft needed for aprocedure before implanting the allograft, as described in greaterdetail below.

Referring to FIG. 1B, a cross-sectional view of trial sizer 100 isshown. In some configurations elongated shaft 104 defines a channel 128extending from proximal end 108 to distal end 112. In someconfigurations, elongated shaft 104 is configured to indicate insertiondepth of trial sizer 100 to correspond with the insertion depth of asoft-tissue allograft. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, distal end 112of elongated shaft 104 comprises a plurality of indicia 112 a toindicate insertion depth of trial sizer 100 into a space (e.g., cavitysuch as sinus tarsi). For example, as best illustrated in FIGS. 1A and1C, the indicia can be in the form of a depth scale. For example in someconfigurations, the depth scale may represent a range of dimensions(e.g., 5 mm to 40 mm) such that when trial sizer 100 is inserted intoskin, as illustrated in FIG. 1D, depth scale will indicate the depth ofinsertion (e.g., 25 mm in FIG. 1D). In other configurations, depth scalemay have a range with a low value is less than 5 mm and a high valuethat is greater than 40 mm. In some configurations the plurality ofindicia 112 a can have a depth scale that is greater than 40 mm. Forexample, as best illustrated in FIGS. 1E, the plurality of indicia 112 amay range from 10 mm to 60 mm. In other configurations, the depth scalecan be any range between 0 mm and a length of elongated shaft 104.

In some configurations, distal end 112 of elongated shaft 104 definesone or more threads 132 along a portion of a length 136 of distal end112. In some configurations, such as the one shown in FIG. 1B, trialsizer 100 may further include trial sizer handle 140 defining a channel144 extending between, and through, a proximal end 148 to a distal end152, the trial sizer handle 140 being coupled to proximal end 108 ofelongated shaft 104. In some configurations, trial sizer handle 140 isunitary with elongated shaft 104. In some configurations, channel 144 isin fluid communication with channel 128 to define a passage throughtrial sizer 100. In some configurations, channel 128 has a transversedimension that is less than a transverse dimension of channel 144, whilein other configurations the transverse dimension channel 128 may begreater than or equal to the transverse dimension of channel 144.

In some configurations, radiopaque tip 116 can be uncoupled from distalend 112 of elongated shaft 104 and the elongated shaft can be used topush an implant (e.g., dermal allograft 700) through delivery cannula200 to an insertion point 204 beneath the skin surface. In someconfigurations, the length of radiopaque tip 116 is from 8 mm to 25 mm.Radiopaque tip may comprise any suitable material that can absorb X-raysand thus influence a radiological image. In this way, trail sizer 100may be used during a fluoroscopy procedure so an operator may preciselydetermine the location of radiopaque tip 116 while the tip is insertedwithin a patient.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-4 , some configurations of the present kits400 comprise: at least one of the configurations of the presentlydisclosed trial sizers, and a delivery cannula 200, such as the oneshown in FIGS. 2A-2C, comprising: an elongated body 208 having aproximal end 212 and a distal end 216, and defining a longitudinalchannel 220 extending between, and through, the proximal and distal ends212, 216; and a handle portion 224 coupled to proximal end 212 ofelongated body 208, the handle portion 224 defining a channel 228 thatis aligned with and in fluid communication with longitudinal channel 220of elongated body 208. In some configurations of the present kits,elongated body 208 of delivery cannula 200 comprises transparentmaterial to allow depth readings of the scale (e.g., 112 a) located onelongated shaft 104 of trial sizer 100 or elongated shaft 304 ofdelivery tool 300.

In some configurations of the present kits 400, kit 400 furthercomprises delivery tool 300, such as the one shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. Inthe depicted configuration, delivery tool 300 comprises an elongatedshaft 304 having a proximal end 308 and a distal end 312 that isconfigured to indicate insertion depth. In some configurations of thepresent kits, distal end 312 of elongated shaft 304 comprises aplurality of indicia 312 a to indicate insertion depth. In someconfigurations of the present kits, elongated shaft 304 of delivery tool300 has a diameter 316 from 5 mm to 15 mm. In some configurations of thepresent kits, delivery tool 300 further comprises delivery tool head 320coupled to proximal end 308 of elongated shaft 304. In someconfigurations of the present kits, delivery tool head 320 is unitarywith elongated shaft 304.

In some configurations of the present kits, elongated shaft 104 of trialsizer 100 is configured to have an outer diameter 160 from 5 mm to 15mm. In some configurations of the present kits, delivery cannula 200 isconfigured to have an inner diameter 232 from 5 mm to 15 mm. Anycombination of trial sizer 100 and delivery cannula 200 may be chosen topermit trial sizer 100 to fit within inner diameter 232 of deliverycannula 200 when sizing a soft-tissue allograft (e.g., dermal allograft700) for delivery to insertion point 204.

As best illustrated by FIGS. 5A-5B, in some configurations of thepresent kits, distal end 152 of trial sizer handle 140 has a firstportion 164 with a first transverse dimension 168, and a second portion172 with a second transverse dimension 176 larger than first transversedimension 168, the first transverse dimension 168 being larger than acorresponding transverse dimension 220 a of longitudinal channel 220 ofdelivery cannula 200 to prevent the first portion 164 from enteringlongitudinal channel 220 of delivery cannula 200.

In some configurations of the present kits, kit 400 further comprises atleast one sterile dermal allograft 700 having a diameter 704 about equalto an average width 708 of a canal 712 between a subject's misalignedbones 716, where dermal allograft 700 is compressible and flexible. Insome configurations of the present kits, dermal allograft 700 has adensity sufficient to resist full compression of canal 712.

In some configurations of the present kits, kit 400 further comprises apackage 404 within which other components of kit 400 are sealed.

Referring to FIG. 6 , a flow chart showing a method 600 for sizing anddelivering a soft-tissue allograft using any of the configurations ofthe apparatuses and kits of the present disclosure is shown. Theoperation of method 600 will be described with reference to trial sizer100, delivery cannula 200, and delivery tool 300, but may be performedwith any of the configurations of the present trial sizers and kits ofthe present disclosure.

At block 604, and as illustrated by FIGS. 5A-5B, method 600 starts bydisposing trial sizer 100 through an incision in the skin of a patientsuch that distal end 112 of trial sizer 100 is disposed between theincision and a given space between bones of the patient. The insertedtrial sizer 100 may be operable with any of the presently disclosed kitsor of the presently disclosed apparatuses. In some configurations,delivery cannula is disposed through the incision and trial sizer 100 isthen inserted into the space. In some configurations, such as the oneillustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B, delivery cannula 200 is inserted as deepinto canal 712 as possible with the aid of trial sizer 100. At block608, method 600 continues by determining whether trial sizer 100 fitsinto the space in an acceptable way, and if trial sizer 100 fits intothe space in an acceptable way, continuing to block 612 by inserting acorrespondingly sized delivery cannula 200 into the space (e.g., 712).If trial sizer 100 does not fit into the space in an acceptable way,method 600 continues to block 608 a by sequentially repeating steps atblocks 608 and 608 a with a trial sizer of a different size until atrial sizer fits into the space in an acceptable way.

Some methods comprise delivering an implant (e.g., dermal allograftimplant 700) through cannula 200 into the space. To deliver the implant,some methods include removing trial sizer 100 from delivery cannula 200and placing the implant (e.g., 700) into the cannula (e.g., insertingallograft implant into channel 228). The implant may then be pushedthrough delivery cannula 200 by reinserting trial sizer 100 or using adifferent tool (e.g., delivery tool 300). Some methods comprisedisposing the implant into the space and removing trial sizer 100,delivery cannula 200, and/or delivery tool 300.

Delivery of a soft-tissue allograft (e.g., dermal allograft 700) may beperformed using a trial sizer of any of the presently disclosed kits orof the presently disclosed apparatuses into the space including, forexample, by uncoupling the radiopaque tip of the trial sizer and usingthe distal end of the elongated shaft of the trial sizer to push dermalallograft 700 through the delivery cannula to the insertion point. Insome configurations, as illustrated by FIGS. 7A-7E, delivery of dermalallograft 700 into the space may be performed using trial sizer 100 ofany of the presently disclosed kits or of the presently disclosedapparatuses. In other configurations, a delivery tool (e.g., 300) of anyof the presently disclosed kits or of the presently disclosedapparatuses may be used to deliver an implant (e.g., 700) into the spaceincluding, for example, by using distal end 312 of elongated shaft 304of delivery tool 300 to push dermal allograft 700 through deliverycannula 200 to the insertion point at a desired depth indicated ondistal end 312 of delivery tool 300 visible through delivery cannula200.

Referring to FIGS. 7F-70 , top and isometric views of a subtalaroperation for inserting a dermal allograft 700 into a space 720 (e.g.,sinus tarsi) within a patient's foot are shown. FIGS. 7F and 7G depictthe trial sizer 100 inserted into space 720. A correctly dimension trialsizer 100 may be determining using the method disclosed in FIG. 6 .FIGS. 7H and 71 show top and isometric views of trial sizer 100 anddelivery cannula 200 inserted into space 720. In the depictedembodiment, delivery cannula 200 is inserted into space 720 before trialsizer 100; however, in other configurations, trial sizer 100 is insertedinto the space before the delivery cannula.

Referring now to FIGS. 7L and 7M, top and isometric views of patient'sfoot are shown after trial sizer 100 is removed from space 720. Asshown, a dermal allograft 700, or any other insert, may be placed withindelivery cannula 200. The insert may then be delivered to space 720 vialongitudinal channel 220 of delivery cannula 200. As shown in FIGS. 7Nand 70 trial sizer 100 may be reinserted into delivery cannula 200 todeliver the insert into space 720. In other configurations, another toolmay be used to deliver insert 700 through delivery cannula 200. Forexample, delivery tool 300 can be used to push the insert throughlongitudinal channel 220 of delivery cannula 200. Dermal allograft 700is then disposed within space 720 (e.g., sinus tarsi) to help stabilizethe skeletal or musculoskeletal system. For example, dermal allograft700 is placed within the sinus tarsi to supplement the talocalcanealligament.

Some implementations of the present methods for sizing and delivering anallograft further comprise removing the delivery cannula afterdelivering the implant. In some configurations of the present methodsfor sizing and delivering an allograft, the method further comprisessuturing the incision closed.

In some implementations of the present methods for sizing and deliveringa soft-tissue allograft, delivery cannula 200 comprises an elongatedbody 208 having a proximal end 212 and a distal end 216, and defining alongitudinal channel 220 extending between, and through, proximal end212 and distal end 216, and handle portion 224 coupled to proximal end212 of elongated body 208, the handle portion 224 defining channel 228that is aligned with and in fluid communication with longitudinalchannel 220 of elongated body 208.

In some implementations of the present methods for sizing and deliveringa soft-tissue allograft, the method further comprises inserting deliverytool 300 comprising an elongated shaft 304 having a proximal end 308 anda distal end 312, where distal end 312 of elongated shaft 304 isconfigured to indicate insertion depth.

FIG. 8A shows an isometric view of another configuration of the presenttrial sizers. In some configurations, trial sizer 800 includes acylindrical head 804 with a first side 808, a second side 812, and aperipheral surface 816 extending between the first and second sides 808,812, and may define, as shown, a circular cross sectional shape of thehead 804, or any other shape particularly suited for the type of jointarthroplasty procedure. The handle 820 has a proximal end 824 and adistal end 828 coupled to the peripheral surface 816. The head 804 canhave dimensions that mimic the dimensions of a corresponding soft-tissueallograft. In this way, at least some configurations of the presentapparatuses can aid in determining the appropriate size and location ofthe soft-tissue allograft appropriate for transplantation at the site ofdelivery in a way that has previously not been possible with prior arttrial sizers.

FIGS. 8B-8D show an isometric view, side view, and cross-sectional viewof cylindrical head 804 of a present trial sizer. In someconfigurations, cylindrical head 804 may define one or more apertures(e.g., 832) going through peripheral surface 816. Aperture(s) 832 may beused to couple handle 820 to cylindrical head. Cylindrical head 804 canbe sized and shaped to correspond to a soft-tissue allograft. Forexample, cylindrical head 804 has a length 834 that is be greater thanor equal to any one of, or between any two of: 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5,0.6, or 0.75 inches (in.) (e.g., between 0.4 and 0.6 in, such asapproximately 0.591 in.).

In some configurations, head 804 is radiopaque. In some configurations,the head 804 is unitary with the handle 820. In some configurations, atransverse dimension of the head 804 is from 8 mm to 20 mm.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-9F, FIG. 9A shows a side view of aconfiguration of the present suture delivery guides. FIG. 9B shows a topview of the suture delivery guide of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9C shows across-sectional view of the suture passages disposed within the suturedelivery guide of FIG. 9A and taken along a plane bisecting the suturedelivery guide. FIG. 9D shows a cross-sectional side view of the suturedelivery guide of FIG. 9A taken along a plane bisecting the longitudinaldimension of the suture delivery guide. FIG. 9E shows a cross-sectionaltop view of the suture delivery guide of FIG. 9D. FIG. 9F shows across-sectional view of the suture passages on a side of the implantchamber and taken along a plane bisecting the suture delivery guide. Insome configurations, suture delivery guide 900 includes a body 904having a first side 908 and a second side 912 and defining an implantchamber 916 extending through the first side 908 toward the second side912, the body 904 defining a plurality of first suture passages 920 on afirst side 924 of the implant chamber 916 and a plurality of secondsuture passages 928 on a second side 932 of the implant chamber 916,each of the second suture passages 928 being aligned with acorresponding one of the first suture passages 920, the body 904 furtherdefining a first slot 936 extending through the first side 908 of thebody 904 and in fluid communication with all of the first suturepassages 920, and a second slot 940 extending through the first side 908of the body 904 and in fluid communication with all of the second suturepassages 928.

In some configurations, the body 904 has a medial portion 944 thatdefines the implant chamber 916 and two lateral portions 948 a, 948 b,on opposite sides of the medial portion 944. A first one of the lateralportions 948 a defines the first suture passages 920, and a second oneof the lateral portions 948 b defines the second suture passages 928.

In some configurations, each of two of the first suture passages 920 aand a corresponding each of two of the second suture passages 928 a isintersected by a reference plane (B-B) that extends parallel to thefirst and second slots 936, 940, and through the first and second sides908, 912, of the body 904.

In some configurations, a set of two of the first suture passages 920 band a corresponding set of two of the second suture passages 928 b isarranged relative to a reference plane (B-B) that extends parallel tothe first and second slots 936, 940, and through the first and secondsides 908, 912, of the body 904, such that the set of two of the firstsuture passages 920 b are disposed on opposite sides of the plane, andthe corresponding set of two of the second suture passages 928 b aredisposed on opposite sides of the plane (B-B).

Referring now to FIGS. 9G-91 , FIG. 9G shows a cross-sectional side viewof a second configuration of the suture delivery guide. FIG. 9H shows atop view of the suture delivery guide of 9G. FIG. 9I shows across-sectional view of the suture passages on a side of the implantchamber and taken along a plane bisecting the suture delivery guide. Inthis configuration, components are similar (e.g., in structure and/orfunction) to components discussed with reference to FIGS. 9A-9F. In someconfigurations, implant chamber 916 comprises a maximum transversedimension 952 between 4 mm to 20 mm. In some configurations, suturedelivery guide 900 may contain a laser etching (e.g., 956) that containsinformation about the suture delivery guide. For example, a dimension,orientation, logo, or other information may be included in the laseretching.

In some configurations of the present kits, a kit comprises: at leastone of a configuration of any of the presently disclosed trial sizers(e.g., 800); and at least one of a configuration of any of the presentlydisclosed suture delivery guides (e.g., 900).

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises:at least one sterile dermal allograft 516 having a diameter about equalto an average width of a canal between a subject's bones, where thedermal allograft 516 is compressible and flexible.

In some configurations of the present kits, the dermal allograft has adensity sufficient to resist full compression.

In some configurations of the present kits, the kit further comprises apackage within which the other components of the kit are sealed.

Implementation of the present methods will be discussed with referenceto trial sizer 800, suture delivery guide 900 and the hand bones shownin FIGS. 11A-11C. FIG. 11A shows a top view of the thumb metacarpal bone500, carpometacarpal joint 504, trapezium 508, and carpal bones 512 ofthe hand. FIG. 11B shows a sagittal view of the hand bones of FIG. 11A.FIG. 11C shows an isometric view of the hand bones of FIG. 11A.

In some implementations of the present methods, a method includes: (a)inserting a trial sizer (e.g., 800) of any of the kits presentlydisclosed or any configuration of the trial sizers presently disclosedinto a given space between bones of the patient, such as, for example,the space occupied by the trapezium bone 508 in the carpometacarpaljoint 504; (b) determining whether the trial sizer (e.g., 800) fits intothe space in an acceptable way, and (i) if the trial sizer (e.g., 800)fits into the space in an acceptable way, delivering a soft-tissueallograft 516 to the space; or (ii) if the trial sizer (e.g., 800) doesnot fit into the space in an acceptable way, sequentially repeatingsteps (b) and (c) with a trial sizer of a different size until a trialsizer fits into the space in an acceptable way.

In some implementations, a bone (e.g., the trapezium bone 504) isexcised prior to inserting trial sizer 800. As best illustrated in FIGS.12A-12C, in some implementations the peripheral surface 816 of the head804 of the trial sizer 800 faces bone in a preferred orientation. Asbest illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13C, in some implementations the first end808 and the second end 812 of the head 804 of the trial sizer 800 facesbone in a preferred orientation.

Once the preferred orientation is determined, delivery of a soft-tissueallograft, such as dermal allograft 516, to the space between the bonesmay include using a suture delivery guide such as the one shown in FIGS.9A-9F. The suture delivery guide may include any configuration of thesuture delivery guides presently disclosed.

In some implementations, delivering an implant 516 to the spaceincludes: inserting a suture anchor in the distal aspect of the 2ndmetacarpal bone 520; and fastening a soft-tissue allograft 516 to thesuture anchor.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-9F, and 10A-10B, delivery of a soft-tissueallograft 516 to the space in the same orientation as the trial sizer800 of FIGS. 13A-13C using suture delivery guide 900 will be described.As best illustrated by FIG. 10B, in some implementations, delivering asoft-tissue allograft 516 to the space includes passing a suture 528through one of a first set of suture passages 920 a, through implant516, and then through a corresponding one of a second set of suturepassages 928 a, and then looping the suture 528 through a flexor carpiradialis tendon 524 of the patient. The suture 528 is then looped backthrough the other one of the second set of suture passages 928 a, backthrough soft-tissue allograft 516, and then through the other one of thefirst set of suture passages 920 a. The suture 528 is then slipped outof first and second slots 936, 940, allowing the dermal allograft 516 tobe delivered over the suture 528 and into the space between bones of thepatient (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 15A-15C, the space previously occupiedby the trapezium bone between the 1^(st) metacarpal bone 500 and thescaphoid bone 532); and (d) tying the suture 528 using an acceptablesurgical knot.

Alternatively, in some implementations, delivering an implant 516 to thespace can be in the same orientation as the trial sizer 800 of FIGS.12A-12C. As best illustrated by FIG. 10A, in some implementations,delivering a soft-tissue allograft 516 to the space includes passing asuture 528 through one of a first set of suture passages 920 b, throughimplant 516, and then through a corresponding one of a second set ofsuture passages 928 b, and then looping the suture 528 through a flexorcarpi radialis tendon 524 of the patient. The suture 528 is then loopedback through the other one of the second set of suture passages 928 b,back through implant 516, and then through the other one of the firstset of suture passages 920 b. The suture 528 is then slipped out offirst and second slots 936, 940, allowing the dermal allograft 516 to bedelivered over the suture 528 and into the space between bones of thepatient (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the space previously occupiedby the trapezium bone between the 1^(st) metacarpal bone 500 and thescaphoid bone 532); and (d) tying the suture 528 using an acceptablesurgical knot.

In some implementations of the present methods, a method comprises:providing at least one sterile pre-formed allograft rod plug having adiameter about equal to an average width of a space between a person'sbones and a density sufficient to resist full compression of the space,the pre-formed allograft rod plug being resiliently compressible andflexible while remaining substantially as the formed plug; anddelivering the at least one sterile pre-formed allograft rod plug intothe space between a set of bones of the patient, where the set of bonesis selected from the group of sets of bones consisting of: (a) a 1stmetacarpal bone and a scaphoid bone; (b) a 4^(th) metatarsal bone,5^(th) metatarsal bone, and cuboid bone; (c) a 5^(th) metatarsal bone;(d) a tibia bone and a talus bone; (e) a radius bone and a humerus bone;(f) a femur bone and a pelvis bone; (g) any of the proximal phalanges ofa hand and any of the corresponding intermediate phalanges of a hand.

In some implementations, a portion or all of a patient's trapezium boneis removed to manually create a space prior to delivering the at leastone sterile dermal allograft.

In some implementations, a trial sizer (e.g., 800) is inserted into thespace created between the 1^(st) metacarpal 500 and the scaphoid bone532 of the patient's hand prior to delivering the at least one steriledermal allograft 516. For example, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12C, trialsizer 800 may be oriented where the peripheral surface 816 of the head804 of the trial sizer 800 faces bone, or alternatively oriented wherethe first and second sides 808, 812, of the head 804 of trial sizer 800face bone. Whichever orientation is determined by the health careprovider to be an acceptable orientation, the dermal allograft 516 maythen be delivered and oriented similarly. For example, as shown in FIGS.14A-14C, dermal allograft 516 is oriented in a first orientation similarto the orientation of the trial sizer in FIGS. 12A-12C. Alternatively,as shown in FIGS. 15A-15C, dermal allograft 516 is oriented in a secondorientation similar to the orientation of the trial sizer in FIGS.13A-13C.

In some implementations, the space to be filled with dermal allograft516 is between the 4^(th) and 5^(th) metatarsal bones of the foot andthe cuboid bone of the foot.

In some implementations, the space to be filled with dermal allograft516 is between a tibia bone and a talus bone of the patient.

In some implementations, the space to be filled with dermal allograft516 is between a radius bone and a capitellum portion of a humerus boneof the patient.

In some implementations, the space to be filled with dermal allograft516 is between a femur bone and a pelvis bone of the patient.

In some implementations, the space to be filled with dermal allograft516 is between any of the proximal phalanges of a hand and any of thecorresponding intermediate phalanges of a hand. Other clinicalindications may also benefit from implementation of the methodspresently disclosed.

The above specification and examples provide a complete description ofthe structure and use of exemplary configurations. Although certainconfigurations have been described above with a certain degree ofparticularity, or with reference to one or more individualconfigurations, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterationsto the disclosed configurations without departing from the scope of thisinvention. As such, the various illustrative configurations of thepresent devices, apparatuses, kits, and methods are not intended to belimited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include allmodifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims,and configurations other than the one shown may include some or all ofthe features of the depicted configuration. For example, components maybe combined as a unitary structure, and/or connections may besubstituted. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examplesdescribed above may be combined with aspects of any of the otherexamples described to form further examples having comparable ordifferent properties and addressing the same or different problems.Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantagesdescribed above may relate to one configuration or may relate to severalconfigurations.

The claims are not intended to include, and should not be interpreted toinclude, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such alimitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s)“means for” or “step for,” respectively.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A method for delivering an implant, the methodcomprising: (a) inserting a trial sizer into a given space between bonesof a patient; (b) determining whether the trial sizer fits into thespace in an acceptable way, and: (i) if the trial sizer fits into thespace in an acceptable way, delivering the implant to the space; or (ii)if the trial sizer does not fit into the space in an acceptable way,sequentially repeating steps (a) and (b) with a trial sizer of adifferent size until a trial sizer fits into the space in an acceptableway.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising excising a bone in apatient prior to inserting the trial sizer.
 23. The method of claim 22,wherein the bone is a trapezium bone.
 24. The method of claim 21,wherein the space between bones is the space occupied by the trapeziumbone in the carpometacarpal joint.
 25. The method of claim 21, wherein aperipheral surface of a head of the trial sizer faces bone.
 26. Themethod of claim 25, wherein a first side and a second side of the headof the trial sizer faces bone.
 27. The method of claim 21, whereindelivering the implant to the space comprises using a suture deliveryguide.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the suture delivery guidecomprises: a body having a first side and a second side and defining animplant chamber extending through the first side toward the second side,the body defining a plurality of first suture passages on a first sideof the implant chamber and a plurality of second suture passages on asecond side of the implant chamber, each of the second suture passagesbeing aligned with a corresponding one of the first suture passages, thebody further defining a first slot extending through the first side ofthe body and in fluid communication with all of the first suturepassages, and a second slot extending through the first side of the bodyand in fluid communication with all of the second suture passages. 29.The method of claim 21, wherein delivering the implant to the spacecomprises: (a) passing a suture through the implant and looping thesuture through a flexor carpi radialis tendon; (b) looping the sutureback through a soft-tissue allograft; (c) delivering the allograft overthe suture and into the space between bones of the patient; and (d)tying the suture using an acceptable surgical knot.
 30. The method ofclaim 21, further comprising inserting a delivery cannula into thespace.
 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising: after deliveringthe soft-tissue allograft, removing the delivery cannula.
 32. The methodof claim 31, where the delivery cannula comprises an elongated bodyhaving a proximal end and a distal end, and defining a longitudinalchannel extending between, and through, the proximal end and the distalend, and a handle portion coupled to the proximal end of the elongatedbody, the handle portion defining a channel that is aligned with and influid communication with the longitudinal channel of the elongated body.33. The method of claim 21, wherein the trial sizer is selected from akit having more than one trial sizers.
 34. The method of claim 21,further comprising inserting a suture anchor into a first bone.
 35. Themethod of claim 34, wherein the first bone is a second metacarpal. 36.The method of claim 34, wherein the suture anchor is inserted into adistal aspect of the first bone.
 37. The method of claim 34, furthercomprising fastening a soft-tissue allograft to the suture anchor.
 38. Amethod for delivering an allograft, the method comprising: providing atleast one sterile pre-formed soft-tissue allograft rod plug, thepre-formed soft-tissue allograft rod plug being resilientlycompressible; delivering the at least one sterile pre-formed soft-tissueallograft rod plug into the space between a set of bones of the patient.39. The method of claim 38, wherein the pre-formed allograft rod plughas a diameter about equal to an average width of a space between aperson's bones and a density sufficient to resist full compression ofthe space.
 40. The method of claim 38, wherein the pre-formed allograftrod plug is resiliently compressible and flexible while remainingsubstantially as the formed plug.
 41. The method of claim 38, whereinthe space between bones is the space occupied by the trapezium bone inthe carpometacarpal joint.